Check out the school’s annual performance report, also available from TEA. http://www.tea.state.tx.us/perfreport/. You can compare school performance to that of similar campuses, the school district average and the state.

Look at the percent of students who score at the higher “commended” level on TAKS, not just passing rates. You can also look at scores for students by race and gender, and for students who are poor, learning English or in special education.

Go beyond the statistics. Visit the school and observe some classrooms. Talk with the principal, teachers and other parents. Look for an active parent-teacher organization. See what advanced classes are offered, and see how many students take them. Ask about clubs and other extra-curricular offerings.